Accessible Hotspot Configuration in Learning Management Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hotspots in digital images are not sufficiently accessible for differently abled learners, particularly those with limited or no visibility, as they do not provide the same type of information accessible to sighted learners.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for configuring hotspots in digital images, which involves receiving a digital image and hotspot markers, preparing a grid to be superimposed over the image, allowing users to edit the grid and hotspot markers, determining the validity of the grid based on hotspot marker locations, and outputting the finalized image with hotspot markers and alternative text.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional hotspots are used in digital images, then sighted learners can access additional information through interactive icons, but restricted visibility learners cannot obtain the same type of information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the digital image into a grid structure with multiple cells, allowing each cell to contain independent hotspot markers and alternative text. This segmentation enables screen readers to systematically navigate through each grid cell and read the alternative text content, ensuring that restricted visibility learners can access information from all hotspots in an organized manner.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces alternative text as an intermediary element that bridges the gap between visual hotspots and screen reader accessibility. The alternative text serves as a mediator that conveys the information intended for sighted learners to restricted visibility learners through audio output, ensuring equivalent information access.
2Ease of operation
If a grid structure is added to organize hotspot markers, then accessibility for screen readers is improved, but the configuration process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The grid divides the image into manageable cells, making the configuration process more structured and systematic. Each cell can be independently configured with hotspot markers and alternative text, reducing the overall complexity by breaking down the task into smaller, organized units rather than dealing with the entire image at once.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically generates and manages the grid structure, hotspot markers, and alternative text associations. The automated processes reduce manual configuration effort and complexity, allowing users to benefit from the structured grid system without having to manually create and manage each component.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple hotspot markers are placed in a single grid cell, then more information can be conveyed, but screen reader navigation becomes confusing
Solution Approach 1:
The grid cell structure provides clear spatial boundaries and organization for multiple hotspot markers. Even when multiple hotspots are placed in a single cell, the grid's systematic structure allows screen readers to navigate through them in a predetermined order (e.g., row by row, column by column), preventing confusion by imposing a clear navigation sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides structured feedback to screen readers about the position and content of each hotspot marker within the grid. This feedback mechanism includes information about which cell a hotspot is in and its relationship to other hotspots, enabling screen reader users to understand the spatial organization and navigate efficiently through multiple hotspots in a cell.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for hotspot configuration. The method includes: receiving a digital image; receiving one or more hotspot markers for the digital image, wherein the hotspot markers indicate a location of a hotspot in the digital image; preparing a grid to be superimposed over the digital image; displaying the digital image, hotspot markers, and grid; allowing a user to enter alternative text describing the content of the hotspot identified by the hotspot marker; allowing a user to edit the grid, hotspot markers and alternative text; and determining if the grid is valid based on the locations of the hotspot markers within the grid, if not, notifying the user and return to allowing the user to edit; and if so, output the finalized digital image with hotspot markers and alternative text. The system includes a processor, a computer memory, and modules configured to perform the method noted above.